Olson’s translation takes some liberties with Rosenius’ lyrics. The original first stanza has no reference to Korsets tecken (sign of the cross); a literal translation would have been With God and His Friendship, His Spirit and Word. Rosenius’ second stanza lacks the words segerns baner (the banner of victory), but the overall theme is of fellowship and the Lord’s pastoral care. Only the third stanza of the translation shows a close fidelity to the Rosenius original. Overall, Olsen’s rendering is more militant than Rosenius’, but a solid message nonetheless.

Oskar Ahnfelt (1813-1882)

The sign of the cross I triumphantly bear,
Though none of my kindred that emblem may wear.
I joyfully follow the champions of right,
Who march on to glory, who march on to glory,
Who march on to glory with weapons of might.

The Pillar that guides us through peril and strife,
The Rock that is cleft, giving waters of life,
Is Christ and His cross. By His Spirit and Word
The heart He refreshes, the heart He refreshes,
The heart He refreshes, our Savior and Lord.

O Shepherd, abide with us, care for us still,
And feed us and lead us, and teach us Thy will,
And when in Thy heavenly fold we shall be,
Our thanks and our praises, our thanks and our praises,
Our thanks and our praises we’ll render to Thee.